Nestled in the vibrant heart of Koukaki, just a short 10-minute walk from the Acropolis, This is Loco is redefining the Athenian brunch scene. More than just a café, it’s a lively fusion of Latin American flavors and global influences, where the love for authentic cuisine, specialty coffee, and warm hospitality come together. Whether you're seeking a mouthwatering brunch, a delightful coffee experience, or a lively event space, This is Loco has something special for everyone.
A Culinary Journey Through Latin America
At This is Loco, the menu is a vibrant celebration of Latin American flavors, carefully crafted to honor tradition while embracing innovation. Each dish is a masterpiece, designed to offer an authentic yet contemporary experience. The driving force behind this culinary excellence? Chef Ilias Karakatsanis, a Greek-Honduran talent whose deep-rooted passion for Latin American cuisine is evident in every plate.
Born in Honduras, Ilias was introduced to cooking at a young age out of necessity. His mother suffered a stroke when he was just nine years old, leaving him and his sister to care for her. This challenging situation led to Ilias learning to cook, a skill he quickly fell in love with. After moving to Greece at 16, he decided to pursue his newfound passion, studying at the Le Monde Culinary School and eventually specializing in Latin American cuisine. Ilias blends his Greek roots with Latin flavors, experimenting with unique combinations that bring a fresh twist to traditional dishes.
Sando CubanoHis attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in every dish, as he tastes and refines every component of his creations. This constant refinement and dedication to perfection is part of what sets the food at This is Loco apart.
Some of the signature dishes include:
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Honduran Baleada – A traditional delight featuring a soft flour tortilla filled with red beans, scrambled eggs, avocado, and red cabbage.
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Chilaquiles con Salsa Roja – A classic Mexican breakfast dish with crispy tortillas, spicy tomato sauce, fried egg, and feta cheese, offering a perfect fusion of Latin and Mediterranean flavors.
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Sando Cubano – A delicious combination of flavors with brioche bread, tender pork steak, whole grain mustard, pickled cucumber and onion, and a touch of heat from jalapeño, creating a perfect balance of savory and zesty notes.
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Chicken Mole Sando – A rich and flavorful sandwich featuring soft brioche bread, juicy chicken smothered in mole sauce, crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy sour cream, and pickled onions, bringing together a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
Honduran Baleada
Lately, one new dish has already started stealing hearts—Tacos de Provatina. A bold and mouthwatering creation with a chipotle corn tortilla filled with succulent pulled sheep, fresh red onion, vibrant cilantro, salsa verde, and pickled onions, making it a must-try for meat lovers!
Tacos de Provatina
Every dish is prepared with the finest ingredients, many of which are sourced locally, ensuring a fresh and authentic experience. There are also fantastic vegan options like the Lentil Burrito and the vegan version of the Baleada.
A Coffee Lover’s Dream
This is Loco takes its brews seriously, offering a single-origin Brazilian house blend alongside a retail selection of specialty beans from Ethiopia, Uganda, Honduras, and Colombia. Each cup is crafted to showcase the best of these regions, offering a rich and flavorful experience that complements the vibrant Latin atmosphere of the café. Are you team classic espresso, or is a creamy cappuccino more your cup of ‘coffee’? No matter what, the coffee experience here is second to none.
Pastry & Refreshments
In addition to the exceptional coffee, This is Loco delights visitors with a selection of exquisite pastries. You'll find creations by our pastry Chef. Her offerings include indulgent carrot, velvet, and banana cakes, alongside a selection of other sweet treats that change daily. Our personal favourite? The lemon and pistachio cake! It’s just too delicious to say no!
For those in need of a refreshing pick-me-up, the café also serves cold-pressed juices and homemade lemonades, perfect for an instant boost.
The Perfect Space for Every Occasion
Beyond its fantastic menu, This is Loco offers a versatile and beautifully designed space for gatherings of all kinds:
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First Floor: A cozy area, ideal for intimate gatherings, study sessions, or small meetings (accommodating up to 25 people).
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Ground Floor: A spacious open area with stunning terrazzo flooring and a rustic-industrial aesthetic, perfect for private dinners, business events, and social gatherings, seating up to 60 guests or hosting up to 150 standing attendees.
A Vision Brought to Life
The vision behind
This is Loco is as inspiring as its menu. Founded by
Athena Skouvaki, a creative entrepreneur who has lived in Sydney and London, the café is a reflection of her global experiences and passion for hospitality. Returning to her childhood neighborhood, she transformed a former car workshop into a welcoming space that blends the past with the present. From the hand-restored mosaic floors to the carefully curated artwork, every detail embodies her dream of creating an inclusive, art-infused culinary haven.
A Destination for Brunch, Coffee & Culture
This is Loco isn’t just about food—it’s about an experience. It’s savoring a beautifully plated dish that transports you across continents, sipping on expertly crafted coffee, and finding a space where culture, flavor, and creativity meet.
For those looking for an unforgettable brunch, an inspiring workspace, or an inviting venue to host their events, This is Loco is the ultimate destination in Athens. It just promises to deliver something extraordinary—every single time.
Location: 47, Falirou Str. Koukaki, Athens
Telephone: For events, contact: 697 050 2673
For any information, contact the shop number: 21 0924 5654 (Supervisor: Sildi)
